Deformation of Ice Single Crystals Close to the Melting Point

Abstract

Abstract Constant strain-rate compression tests on ice single crystals at temperatures between –20°C and -0.2°C are described. The power-law dependence of yield stress on strain-rate gives a value of n which varies from 1.95±0.04 at –0.2°C to 2.07±0.08 at –20°C. The activation energy of deformation varies with strain-rate, but a mean value of 70±2 kJ mol–1 is obtained, with no indication of any increase close to maleting point,as has been found polycrystalline ice. An apparent work-hardening effect, at strains greater than 15%, is explained as being due to bending of the crystal changing the orientation of the basal planes.